"Being female and older

puts women at higher risk for developing the disease, said Kathleen E.

Toomey, M.D., MPH, Director, DHR, Division of Public Health. "Breast

Cancer Awareness Month, and Breast Cancer Prevention and Awareness Day

are important reminders for women, their families and friends about the

life saving practice of regular checkups. Everyone has to get involved

to make a difference. That's what this day is all about - getting

personally involved to save lives."

"Breast Cancer Prevention

and Awareness Day is much needed because it raises awareness about the

fact that the earlier breast cancer is found, the better the chances for

successful treatment," said Linda Edwards, chief mission officer

of the American Cancer Society, Southeast Division. "Because most

cases of breast cancer cannot be prevented, finding breast cancer early

and treating it are the most important strategies in preventing deaths

from the disease and decreasing the chance of having to remove the breast.

Results from over 40 years of research clearly show that women who have

regular mammograms are more likely to have their breast cancer found early."

Women 40 to 64 years of age

who cannot afford a mammogram, may be eligible to receive the health screenings

they need at low or no cost through the BreasTEST & MORE Program offered

departments statewide. About 15,000 Georgia women receive screening services

through BreasTEST & MORE each year. Since 1995, the BreasTEST &

MORE Program has helped more than 600 women to find out that they needed

treatment for cancer.

Mark October 15th on your calendar

and schedule your mammogram appointment today. To learn more about screening

services and Breast Cancer Prevention and Awareness Day activities in

your area. Call the Fayette County Health Department at 770-460-5730 or

call 1-800-4CANCER, or visit www.georgiacancer.org.